LOEWS VANDERBILT PLAZA HOTEL

We do a lot of weddings where the receptions are held at various hotels around town. And of course, the receptions are always beautiful. This past weekend we covered a wedding where the reception was held at Loews Vanderbilt, and again, everything was beautiful. But we were impressed by the little extra touches that Loews Vanderbilt provided that makes them stand out as a great place to hold a reception.

I’m not going to mention the obvious, such as location, location, location. If you know Nashville, then you know how easy it is to find Loews Vanderbilt and how easy it is to pull in and hand off your automobile to the valet.  This goes without saying.  And I’m not going to focus on the classy décor in and around the hotel. This is obvious too.

What I am going to mention are the things that go above and beyond. Such as the lion statues that grace each side of the main entrance at the hotel. I have been at Loews Vanderbilt before and have seen these lions sporting various “outfits” depending on the occasion, such as athletic gear when there is an event in town, such as a marathon. Or they sometimes show their Titans spirit by wearing jerseys or such when a big game is in town. But for a wedding, these lions are dressed as a bride and a groom. Such a small touch, but one that stands out.  And besides, it’s so cute!

Being a vendor, we've become accustomed to the different levels of treatment we receive from staff members at different venues. Generally the staff will treat us cordially. Sometimes not. But at the wedding this past weekend, the staff at Loews treated us as if we were guests! You can read more detail about this in Cheryl's Notes where she describes the hotel staff to be kind and responsive to requests. 

Another thing about Loews Vanderbilt that we appreciated was their willingness to work with us in regard to the lighting.  At the reception this past weekend, the person in charge of lighting took the time to speak with us regarding how the room should be lit during the introduction of the wedding party and first dances.  We understand that people like dimly lit rooms for a party atmosphere, but its a big advantage for us if the lights are brightened somewhat during the big moments then brought down for dinner and dancing. At most reception venues, our requests for lighting fall on deaf ears. But Loews Vanderbilt staff was more than willing to help us out in this area. Wow!

In general, the staff at the hotel was great. Every time we asked a waiter to stop for a moment and allow us to shoot some footage of his tray of hors d’oeuvres, they would actually stop and let us do it!  Again, this may sound small, but so many times this kind of request is totally ignored with the waiter brushing past us; or if they do stop, they impatiently wait for us to finish the shot. We know they are there to do a job and serve the guests, but it’s nice when they realize that we're also there to do a job, which is to document the events of the evening.  And that includes all the details, such as a tray of beautifully arranged hors d’oeuvres. This is something that the bride and groom may not have a chance to see during their busy day. We don't want them to miss anything, so we try to catch all the details and beautiful touches that make their day special.

Just think . . . If we, being vendors, are treated so well by the staff there, then just think how well the guests are treated! 

We're looking forward to working future receptions at Loews Vanderbilt. We were very impressed, and we think you will be too.  Check them out if you’re still looking for a reception venue. Call Erin Wilkinson at 320-1700.  She'll be glad to help you.